16/01/2025
What to expect from your appointment
A full static and movement assessment combined with a full-body equine massage is a comprehensive approach to evaluate and address a horse’s physical condition, performance, and comfort. Here’s an outline of what this type of service might include:
Static Assessment
This involves observing the horse at rest to identify physical imbalances, asymmetries, or areas of concern:
• Posture evaluation: Assess the horse’s stance and weight distribution.
• Palpation: Use hands to feel for muscle tension, heat, swelling, or soreness in key areas such as:
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Back
• Hindquarters
• Limbs
• Hoof condition: Check for any abnormalities in hoof shape or balance.
• Body symmetry: Look for differences between the left and right sides of the horse.
Movement Assessment
This step involves observing the horse in motion to detect signs of discomfort or restricted movement:
• Walk and trot in-hand: Observe gait for unevenness or stiffness.
• Lunging (if applicable): Evaluate movement in a circle to identify any asymmetry or strain.
• Flexion tests: Gentle manipulation of joints to assess range of motion.
• Rider interaction (optional): If ridden, assess how the horse moves under saddle.
Full-Body Massage
After the assessment, the massage targets areas of tension and promotes relaxation and healing:
• Techniques used:
• Effleurage (light strokes to warm muscles).
• Petrissage (kneading to relieve tension).
• Compression and vibration (to stimulate blood flow and relaxation).
• Target areas:
• Neck and poll: Common areas of tension.
• Back and withers: To alleviate soreness from riding.
• Hindquarters: Address power and propulsion muscles.
• Limbs: For joint mobility and circulation.
Benefits
• Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage.
• Relieves muscle tension and soreness.
• Enhances range of motion and flexibility.
• Helps identify potential underlying issues early.
• Promotes relaxation and overall well-being.
